At least two ancient documents emphasize the good will and kindness of the earliest Christians. From a pagan perspective Lucian of Samosata writes a satirical story called "The Death (or Passing) of Peregrinus. According to Lucian, the benevolence of Christians is a result of their foolishness rather than their kindness.
In contrast, an early Christian document known as the Didache (The Teaching of the Twelve), includes instructions to churches regarding traveling teachers who would mooch off churches. Traveling prophets are to be housed for one night or two under extenuating circumstances. But a prophet who remains for three days or asks for money is a false prophet. (Didache chapter 11).
- ”The poor fools have persuaded themselves above all that they are immortal and will live forever, from which it follows that they despise death and many of them willingly undergo imprisonment. Moreover, their first lawgiver taught them that they are all brothers of one another, when once they have sinned by denying the Greek gods, and by worshiping that crucified sophist himself and living according to his laws. So, they despise all things equally and regard them as common property, accepting such teaching without any sort of clear proof. Accordingly, if any quack or trickster, who can press his advantage, comes among them he can acquire great wealth in a very short time by imposing on simple-minded people.” (from Wikipedia).
In contrast, an early Christian document known as the Didache (The Teaching of the Twelve), includes instructions to churches regarding traveling teachers who would mooch off churches. Traveling prophets are to be housed for one night or two under extenuating circumstances. But a prophet who remains for three days or asks for money is a false prophet. (Didache chapter 11).
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